A new study has revealed that trees not only absorb carbon dioxide but also actively remove methane, a potent greenhouse gas, from the atmosphere. This groundbreaking discovery highlights the critical importance of preserving and expanding forest areas to mitigate climate change.
Methane poses a serious threat to our planet, contributing substantially to global warming. Unlike carbon dioxide, which persists in the atmosphere for centuries, methane has a shorter lifespan but traps significantly more heat. Therefore, reducing methane emissions is crucial for mitigating climate change.
Researchers have traditionally focused on wetlands as the primary natural source of methane, with some trees in these areas even emitting methane. However, a recent study has unveiled a surprising finding: trees in various forest types, including those in dry conditions, are actively absorbing methane through their bark.
By conducting extensive measurements on trees across different climates, scientists discovered that methane uptake increases higher up the tree trunk. This suggests that tree bark acts as a previously overlooked methane sink. Furthermore, calculations indicate that trees worldwide could be absorbing a substantial amount of methane annually, equivalent to the methane absorbed by soil.
This new understanding of forests as methane sinks has profound implications for climate action. Protecting and expanding forest areas can contribute significantly to reducing methane levels in the atmosphere. Additionally, there is potential for developing tree species with enhanced methane absorption capabilities and exploring innovative carbon offset schemes that incorporate methane removal.
While decarbonization remains essential for addressing climate change, this discovery highlights the vital role of forests in mitigating global warming. By recognizing and harnessing the methane absorption capacity of trees, we can develop more comprehensive strategies to combat climate change and protect our planet.
Source: Theconversation
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